The Agricultural Utilization Research Institute—Minnesota’s research, development and innovation organization for value-added agriculture—today announced the launch of an assessment of the state’s agbioscience research capabilities. AURI has partnered with Battelle, an internationally recognized research firm, to analyze the areas of strength and the capabilities of Minnesota’s agbioscience research organizations. The assessment is being led by a multi-organization steering committee and is funded currently in part by the Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council and the Minnesota Corn Research & Promotional Council.
“At AURI, our focus is on identifying and implementing research that leads to commercialization. We have a research-based process for determining the highest priority ag research needs of the state. The information from this assessment of research capabilities will allow us to match those needs with the research organizations best positioned to carry out the research,” explains Teresa Spaeth, AURI executive director.
As a result of this assessment, Minnesota will benefit through:
- In-depth knowledge of the technical resources, strengths and capabilities of Minnesota’s various research organizations and how their capabilities compare with the rest of the nation
- The integration of highly qualified research teams with high-value ag commercialization program opportunities
- Improved utilization of Minnesota’s research organizations’ resources for the greatest impact
- Ability to attract significantly more grant funding to the state of Minnesota from national commodity organizations, federal research organizations, foundations and other granting organizations
The agbioscience research assessment, which is expected to be completed in spring 2013, is being coordinated by AURI and led by a steering team of representatives from across the state, including representatives of Minnesota Turkey/Chicken and Egg Association of Minnesota; Glenmore Consulting; Fredrickson-Byron; Minnesota Corn Research & Promotion Council; University of Minnesota; MnSCU/Minnesota State University-Mankato; Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council; USDA Agricultural Research Service; and First Green Partners.
The Agricultural Utilization Research Institute (AURI) is a research, development and innovation organization that helps develop new uses for agricultural products through science and technology, partnering with small- and medium-sized businesses and entrepreneurs to bring ideas to commercialization.
